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The Importance Of Home Maintenance

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Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so it makes sense to take good care of it. While home insurance covers unexpected damage, general wear and tear isn’t included – your HOME INSURER will expect you to maintain and keep your home in good condition. Keeping on top of maintenance and sorting small repairs early can save you money in the long run.

Home Maintenance Tips

Some tasks should be done weekly and monthly, while others are best tackled seasonally as the weather changes.

Spring Jobs To Tick Off

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, it’s a great time to check your home after winter. Here are a few key things to look out for:

  • Check your roof for damage: Cold winter temperatures 
  • Clear gutters and drains – Moss, leaves and debris can block gutters, causing damp problems if rainwater can’t flow away properly.
  • Check your chimney – Birds start nesting in spring, so if you’ve had issues before, now’s the time to get a chimney cowl fitted to prevent them from getting stuck or making a home in there.
  • Inspect brickwork and air bricks – Frost and ice can damage bricks and mortar, letting water in. Also, make sure air bricks are clear to help prevent damp.
  • Check windows and doors – Look for rotting seals, missing mastic or putty which might need attention to prevent ingress of water and any peeling paintwork that might need freshening up.
  • Inspect TV aerials and satellite dishes – Windy weather can loosen fittings, so check everything is secure.

A little home maintenance now can prevent small problems becoming bigger, costlier problems later – your home (and your wallet) will thank you for it!

We are able to provide great rates on your home insurance including both home contents and buildings insurance so why not get in touch with the David J Miller team today and let’s see what we can do!

Making Sure You’re Fully Covered: The Costa Concordia disaster

Ship sailing in sunset.

The Costa Concordia disaster is one of the most infamous maritime accidents in recent times.

On January 13, 2012, the luxury cruise liner Costa Concordia, operated by Costa Cruises, ran aground near Giglio Island, Italy. The ship struck a submerged rock while performing a “salute” manoeuvre – a close pass to the island – tearing a 53-meter (174-foot) hole in its hull. Water flooded the engine rooms, causing a catastrophic loss of power and stability.

Within hours, the ship capsized and partially sank, coming to rest on its side in shallow waters. Of the 4,229 people on board, 32 tragically lost their lives and dozens were injured.

The Costa Concordia disaster was largely attributed to human error. Captain Francesco Schettino deviated from the planned course to perform a close pass to Giglio Island, reportedly as a favour to someone onshore. This reckless manoeuvre brought the ship dangerously close to submerged rocks. During the emergency, poor communication and flawed decision-making further escalated the situation, leaving passengers and crew ill-prepared to handle the unfolding crisis.

The lack of protocol adherence became evident during the chaotic evacuation. Many passengers were unaware of assembly points or proper procedures, leading to confusion and delays. Additionally, the crew faced criticism for their insufficient training in handling such emergencies, which further hindered efforts to manage the disaster effectively.

The Costa Concordia was heavily insured under multiple policies, with total losses estimated at over $2 billion, making it one of the costliest maritime insurance claims in history.

Hull and Machinery Insurance: Covered the ship’s total loss. The Costa Concordia was valued at approximately $570 million.

Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Insurance: Covered the compensation claims which included – Payments to victims’ families

Compensation for passengers’ injuries and trauma

Reimbursement for lost personal belongings.

Environmental Liability Coverage: Addressed the massive cost of removing the shipwreck and mitigating pollution risks. Salvage operations alone cost over $1.2 billion!  It was the most expensive and complex in history using an intricate method called “parbuckling” to rotate the ship upright which took a year of preparation. She was then refloated and towed to a scrapyard in Genoa for dismantling.

Business Interruption Insurance: Covered the revenue losses due to the ship’s destruction and reputational damage.

Captain Francesco Schettino was convicted of multiple charges, including manslaughter, causing a maritime disaster and abandoning ship. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

His actions became the focal point of blame, though systemic issues within Costa Cruises were also highlighted.  It remains a stark reminder of the consequences of poor decision-making, inadequate training and safety oversights. It also highlighted the vital role of comprehensive insurance in addressing financial and environmental damages after such a catastrophic event.

Whilst we appreciate it’s unlikely you will be responsible for steering a cruise ship, it is essential you have adequate cover in place to protect your business (regardless of its size), home, event etc. should you suffer a catastrophic incident.  The David J Miller team would welcome the opportunity to carry out an appraisal of your insurance arrangements and requirements so please get in touch and we would be happy to assist.

Rechargeable Batteries Fire Risk

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house on fire

Lithium batteries are everywhere these days because they offer a lot of advantages over older battery types. They’re lightweight, charge quickly and have a high energy density, meaning they can power devices for longer without making them bulky. That makes them ideal for everything from smartphones and laptops to electric scooters/bikes and power tools. Plus, they’re rechargeable and have a relatively long lifespan, making them more cost-effective in the long run. The downside? They can be sensitive to overheating or damage, which is why you sometimes hear about fire risk safety concerns.

Case Study

A third floor flat in a six-storey building was destroyed by the fire. One man was rescued from the building by firefighters using a fire escape hood due to the toxicity of the fire. Around 30 people were evacuated from the building by the Metropolitan Police Service.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the catastrophic failure of a lithium battery pack for an e-bike that was on charge. Occupants of the flat where the fire started used both electronic bikes and scooters for their employment and several lithium batteries were either stored or on charge.

Here Are Some Tips Recommended By The London Fire Brigade To Mimimise Fire Risk

Use the right charger – Always use the charger that came with the device or a manufacturer-approved one. Cheap, non-branded chargers can be risky.

Avoid overcharging – Unplug devices once fully charged to prevent overheating and reduce battery strain.

Don’t charge on flammable surfaces – Avoid charging on beds, sofas or under pillows where heat can build up.

Watch the temperature – Keep devices away from direct sunlight or extreme cold while charging.

Look for warning signs – If a battery is swelling, overheating or emitting a burning smell, stop using it immediately.

Avoid physical damage – Dropped or punctured batteries can become dangerous, so handle devices with care.  Batteries can ignite several days or weeks after the initial damage has occurred.

Never charge unattended or while asleep – If something goes wrong, you need to be able to act quickly.

Avoid charging in escape routes – Hallways and doorways should stay clear in case of an emergency. If possible, charge/store outdoors or in a shed but if this isn’t possible, make sure it’s in a room where you can shut the door and contain the fire.

We hope you find this useful as we don’t want any unnecessary risks being taken but having household insurance does give you peace of mind should the worst happen.

Through our relationships with the UK’s leading insurers, we can provide great rates on your home insurance including both home contents and buildings insurance so why not get in touch with the David J Miller team today and let’s see what we can do!

What Insurance Do Tradespeople Need?

When you’re a tradesperson, it’s essential to know what insurance you need to protect yourself, your team and your business. Some types of insurance are legal requirements, while others are optional but can provide peace of mind. Let’s break it down:

Motor Insurance – If you use vehicles for your work, having the right motor insurance is a legal must. Your cover needs to reflect the jobs you do and what you transport in your vehicle.  You can go to our dedicated car insurance page to learn more. 

The Motor Insurance Bureau works with the police to inspect commercial vehicles. If you’re found transporting anything not declared to your insurer your cover could be voided. This could lead to a hefty fine, points on your licence and your vehicle will be impounded until you produce correct insurance documents.

Be upfront with your insurer about the type of goods you carry for the types of jobs you do, especially if your work has diversified in recent years.

Goods in Transit Insurance – Offers protection for the goods you are carrying with the main risks being fire, theft and damage caused by impact.

Liability Insurance

Employers’ Liability – If you employ anyone, this is a legal requirement. You can be fined everyday if you are not properly insured.

Public Liability – Essential for most trades, it covers businesses and individuals in the event of claims that may arise from injury, death or property damage to a third party.

Product Liability – If you manufacture or sell products, this covers claims related to those goods.

Professional Indemnity (PI) – If you provide advice or services that clients rely on, PI insurance is highly recommended. For some trades and professions, it’s a regulatory requirement. This cover protects you against claims for financial loss caused by advice or services you provide.

Tools and Equipment Insurance – Your tools are essential to your work and replacing them all at once can be costly if they’re stolen or damaged. Make sure your policy covers:

  • The full value of all your tools.
  • Specialist tools you hire for specific jobs.

Specialist Insurance

Depending on your trade, there are other specialist insurance options you may consider?  Cover options for example: –

  • Cyber Insurance                      
  • Directors & Officers Insurance                        
  • Business Interruption

Why Choose Us?

Navigating the world of insurance can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. As experienced brokers, we’re here to guide you through your options, ensuring you get the right cover at a competitive price.

Insurance policies can often include terms and apply conditions that you need to comply with.  We will bring these to your attention so that you are fully aware of any additional policy requirements.

Let us take the stress out of insurance, so you can focus on what you do best.

Get in touch with the David J Miller team today for expert advice tailored to your business needs!

How To Find The Best Insurance For Your Business

business insurance

No two insurance policies are exactly alike, so there’s more to consider than just the price. It’s important to ensure the cover you choose matches your business needs.

Understanding Policy Comparisons

Comparison tools like Defaqto can help you review and compare insurance policies. However, even five-star rated providers can differ significantly, as their scores are often based on various categories within each trade.

Why Work With David J Miller Insurance Brokers?

As professional insurance brokers, we’ll take the time to get to know your business asking the right questions to understand your specific needs and risks. We’ll then communicate these to underwriters, potentially securing better terms, such as added cover or improved terms & conditions, often with no additional premium.

Things To Consider When Looking For Business Insurance

Be Transparent About Your Work:

Always provide full details about what you do, where and how. For instance, standard policies may exclude high-risk activities like working at heights, using heat or working outdoors. Even if most of your work is routine, ensure your policy covers any occasional higher-risk jobs such as scaffolding or working on blocks of flats.

Demonstrate Your Business Practices:

Share details of how you minimise risk in your business. This could include your security measures against theft, health and safety protocols, training records and continuity plans.

Consider Your Risk Tolerance:

Decide how much risk you’re willing to take on yourself. Opting for a higher excess can lower your premium but ensure the excess is manageable if a claim arises.

Insure For Accurate Values:

Avoid under insurance by making sure your coverage reflects the true value of your business assets such as tools and equipment. Keep receipts for purchases as proof in case of claims. 

**Insurers estimate over 60% of businesses buildings sum insured are under insured. How has your sum insured been calculated? It should represent the full reinstatement costs plus fees. One of the first things a Loss Adjuster will do is check your sums insured and if they are inadequate, this could reduce your claim or the claim could be refused entirely, when your business is most vulnerable. 

Get Tailored Cover For Your Business:

Off-the-shelf policies might not address the unique risks your business faces. By working with a broker, you can customise your cover to ensure you’re protected against the specific challenges of your trade, avoiding unnecessary gaps or overlaps.

Why Choose Us?

Navigating insurance on your own can be overwhelming. With our expertise and personal approach, we’ll ensure you get the best advice and protection tailored to your business. Let us help you focus on what matters most – running your business – while we handle the insurance side. Check our business insurance page for more information on what we cover.

Get in touch with us today for a chat about your needs!

Let’s Smash Another Car Insurance Myth!

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car_motor

“Minor Modifications Don’t Need to Be Declared”

Myth: Many drivers believe that small modifications, like custom wheels or minor aesthetic changes, won’t affect their insurance and don’t need to be disclosed. However, even seemingly minor upgrades could impact your policy.

Reality: Any modifications to your vehicle, whether for aesthetics or performance, need to be disclosed to your insurer. Failure to disclose modifications could result in your policy being voided if you make a claim! Modifications can make your vehicle look more appealing, so insurers need to know about any changes to properly assess your cover.

Always speak to your broker about any changes you make to your vehicle to ensure you remain covered under your Car Insurance.

Money Saving Tips For Insurance!

money-saving-tips

Reducing your business insurance premiums without compromising coverage is possible with a strategic approach.

Here are some examples of how this can be done:

  1. Increase Deductibles: Opting for a higher excess can lower your premiums. Just ensure that you can comfortably afford it in the event of a claim.
  2. Bundle Policies: Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle multiple types of insurance (eg. property, liability, and business interruption) with the same provider. This can simplify management and reduce overall costs. 
  3. Implement Additional Risk Management Measures: Enhance safety and security at your business to lower the risk of claims. This could include installing fire alarms, security systems, and surveillance cameras, as well as regular maintenance and staff training on safety protocols. You may qualify for a discount when extra safety/security measures are implemented.
  4. Regularly Review and Update Coverage: Periodically review your policies to ensure you’re not over-insured or paying for unnecessary coverage. Adjust coverage to reflect any changes in your business, such as downsizing or removing obsolete equipment.
  5. Maintain a Good Claims History: Insurers may offer lower premiums to businesses with a good claims’ history. Implementing risk management practices that reduce the likelihood of claims can help maintain a clean record.

If you’re not sure whether you are properly covered, please don’t leave it to chance. Get expert advice before it’s too late and speak to the team at David J Miller Insurance Brokers. We can arrange a review of your details when it’s due for renewal so get in touch!

Have You Got A Future Holiday Booked?

tourist taking a picture

David J Miller Insurance can get you covered with comprehensive and competitive travel insurance, whether you’re jetting off solo or taking the whole family along. From single trips to annual policies, we’ll find the right policy for your adventures!

Wherever you’re headed — whether it’s backpacking, skiing, or relaxing under the sun, our policies can ensure you’re protected every step of the way.

Get in touch to learn more about:

  • Annual policies
  • Single trip options
  • Cruises
  • Dangerous sports
  • Water sports
  • Winter sports
  • Cover for pre-existing medical conditions **
  • Specialist cover
  • Round-the-world trips
  • Special restrictions

**A pre-existing condition is any health or medical issue you’ve been diagnosed with or received treatment for, including symptoms you’re waiting on a diagnosis for. If you’re unsure whether a condition is relevant, you do need to share it with us — this includes conditions managed with medication or those that only flare up now and then. Remember, honesty is the best policy!

Using the David J Miller team will help you save time and money! Let us help you find the best policy tailored to your needs, so you can travel with peace of mind knowing you and your loved ones are well-protected.

If you’re off on your travels, get in touch as soon as you book to ensure your trip is covered, especially for cancellation, as anything can happen in the time between booking and travelling.

Dedicated Event Insurance Team

people-sat-in-events-space

Did you know that David J Miller Insurance Brokers has a dedicated event insurance team? Our straightforward, no-nonsense staff are here to help you quickly get a quote or answer any event-related questions you might have. We’ll get you covered in no time!

Our team specialises in Event Insurance for event committees, individual organisers and professionals. So, whether you’re planning a village fete, a sports tournament, a conference, an exhibition, a boxing match, or even a festival, our team is here to make sure your event is properly insured. It doesn’t particularly matter what size or scale your event is. If you need insurance for just one day, or for multiple events throughout the year, we’ve got a policy that covers that too!

Our events insurance team focus solely on the Event Insurance industry and understand how confusing it can be. We’re committed to answering all your questions, big or small and we take pride in delivering exceptional service every step of the way.

Beyond great service, our quotes are comprehensive and affordable. We’ll make sure your event has all the essential coverage you require.

Here are ‘some’ of the event insurance options we can offer:

  • Public Liability Insurance – Essential for covering incidents where a member of the public might get injured or 3rd party property is damaged at your event.

  • Employers’ Liability Insurance – If you’ve got anyone helping at your event whether paid or not, this coverage is normally required by law.

  • Equipment Cover – Protects any event equipment owned or hired in case it’s damaged or stolen.

We’re here to make sure you get the cover you need so get in touch.

Don’t Get Caught Out!  What You Need to Know About Gap Insurance

mechanic fixing car in garage.

Gap Insurance can be your safeguard when it comes to treating yourself to a new car. It bridges the gap between what your insurer would pay if your car were stolen or written off, and what you originally paid for it.

Imagine spending £15,000 on a car or financing that amount. Then, a week later, your car is stolen or written off. Your insurer offers you £10,000 based on the car’s current value, but you’re still £5,000 short or potentially even in debt for a car you no longer have.

That’s where Gap Insurance steps in! It covers the shortfall between your insurer’s payout and what you’d need to replace the car or clear your finance. Given how quickly cars depreciate, it can really save the day.

Where Gap Insurance Applies

You’ve Taken Out a Big Loan to Buy Your Car – Gap Insurance can cover any outstanding finance if your car is stolen or written off, so you won’t be stuck paying for a car you can no longer drive.

Worried About Depreciation? – If your car’s value drops quickly, you may not get back what you paid for it after an incident. Gap Insurance will enable you to get back more of what the car has actually cost you.

You’re in a Long-Term Lease – For long-term rentals with mileage limits, a write-off could leave you without a car and facing hefty fees. Gap Insurance helps protect you from this scenario.

Who wouldn’t want peace of mind from this potential scary financial scenario?  Some scary stats here……….did you know that nearly 500,000 vehicles are written off every year and a vehicle is stolen every 8 seconds in the UK?

The David J Miller’s team are here to help so get in touch!

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